Description
6/15/26 - This is an excellent St. Etienne Gaulois No. 2 Palm Pistol, chambered in 8mm Gaulois, and produced in France between 1895-1912. These pistols were initially called the Mitrailleuse (from "Grapeshot") from 1893 to approximately 1895 before being re-branded as the Le Gaulois (referring to the native people of France, the Gauls). The top of the barrel is marked with the caliber designation, a crossed cannons logo, and GAULOIS. The top of the frame bears the circular Manufacture Francaise Armes et Cycles Saint Etienne factory logo. The receiver is gorgeously etched with an intricate, crisp geometric and floral engraved pattern. This pistol is all matching, with the serial number 13409 stamped on the underside of the barrel, internally on the frame, and on the interior of the sideplate. The firearm is in excellent condition, especially for its age, retaining about 98% of its original finish. There is some wear along the right side of the barrel, and a few scattered handling marks. While there is very little bluing loss, there are a few areas of oxidation/patina, including the lower left and upper right sides of the receiver, a couple of spots on the barrel, some minor surface oxidation on the front grip strap, and a couple small spots internally. Flashes of vibrant nitre blue remain on the safety lever. The sliding squeezer mechanism shows minor expected friction wear, and is fitted with a sharp checkered hard rubber palm pad, which is in excellent condition, but does have a small chip at the very top that does not affect functionality and is only visible from a top-down view. The frame screw is slightly marred. Excellent mechanics. The bore is excellent, shiny with well defined rifling. However, there is one tiny quarter-ring of surface pitting about an inch back from the muzzle. Accompanied by an exceptionally rare original leather purse style concealment holster. The original leather holster is in great shape for its age, but does show expected age related wear, and a couple of period stitching repairs consistent with authentic late 19th century carry.
